Portland bans smoking in parks, other public spaces | News

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PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- Smoking will now be banned in many public spaces, after a city council vote Monday night.

Smoking is already banned within 25 feet of beaches, athletic fields, and playgrounds. The council unanimously approved the ordinance. It includes all city-owned parks, such as Deering Oaks, the Eastern Promenade, and Tommy's Park. It also includes public spaces like Monument Square and Congress Square.

A few people stood to speak against, and in favor of the ban, citing the dangers of secondhand smoke, and whether the ban was an effective use of city resources.

After a verbal warning, the fine for smoking in a public space wll be a minimum of fifty dollars.